It's a waiting game: Three tips for helping your dental implants to heal after placement
Getting dental implants can be an exciting time, however it's natural to be apprehensive about the healing process. Take a look at this quick guide to help keep you healthy and comfortable while your dental implants heal.
Plan your meals ahead of time
It's normal to be on a soft foods diet for at least a few days immediately after your dental implants. To help make your post-implant meals easy and even enjoyable, take the time to plan before you head to the dental clinic. Make a delicious batch of soup and freeze in portion-sized tubs. If you need something a little more substantial, whip up a nice stir-fry with soft vegetables and noodles- avoid adding crunchy vegetables, and try not to consume your meals too hot for the first few days. Pick up your favourite yoghurt, ice-cream and soft fruits such as melon and berries for a special sweet treat during your recovery.
Consider changing your lifestyle to suit
If you want your dental implants to be successful, there may be some lifestyle changes that you'll need to make. As smoking can significantly diminish the success rate of dental implants, as well as leading to a variety of oral health issues, it is highly recommended that you stop smoking at least one week before getting dental implants. For optimal implant survival, smoking should also be avoided for two months following placement. If you need help to quit smoking, check out the Australian Government's QuitNow site for helpful resources and advice, or call Quitline on 137 848.
Reducing your alcohol consumption before and after your dental implant placements is also advisable, as excessive drinking has been shown to diminish bone density and implant success. For more information and help to quit drinking, check out the DrinkWise website.
Maintain your oral hygiene routine
It's absolutely normal to experience some discomfort following your dental implant placement- your mouth may feel stiff, numb and sore, with some minor bleeding. You may also have a sore throat, and localised pain depending on the extent of the procedure. To help your mouth heal as quickly as possible, follow your dentist's recommended oral hygiene routine after your dental implant placement. Avoid cleaning the implant area for a few days after placement, but clean the rest of your mouth as normal. You may also want to apply an icepack to the implant area of your face to reduce inflammation. If you experience any adverse reactions, severe pain or bleeding, contact a dentist immediately for advice.
With a little patience, preparation and consistency, you'll be smiling in no time. For more information and advice on maintaining your dental implants while they heal, chat with your local dental clinic today.